Landcare: the farmer's role

By Brendan Barnes, President, Fertilizer Association of Ireland

THE Fertilizer Association of Ireland was founded in 1968 under the stewardship of its first President, Dr. Tom Walsh. Over that time, the association has issued 36 publications covering many aspects of N, P and K and sulphur usage.

The economics of correct fertilizer use show that it contributes to up to 50 per cent of total world food production.

Agriculture and fertiliser have become a focus and, unfortunately, are now almost routinely highlighted as major contributors to environmental problems.

The Fertilizer Association will continue to highlight that science, and not opinion, should guide the future of nutrient use on Irish farms.

The Irish farming community has always taken a responsible position in maintaining a balance between production and the environmental needs of the land.

The Fertilizer Usage Survey has shown that farmers do not misuse nutrients nor should the rare but highlighted actions of the few be used to legislate for all. Farmers maintain their livelihood through land management and will always aim to improve it, as the land moves from generation to generation.

The Fertilizer Association has always promoted the responsible use of fertilizers, as instanced in it being the first to publish a code of good practice for the environment in relation to fertilizers and animal manure. It has also encouraged the use of soil testing and fertilizer application based on soil test results and previous cropping.

Fertilizer recommendations in the future will be more precise.

It is extremely important that they are based on good, recent research.

The Fertilizer Association's primary objective is to promote the use of fertilizers in a way that respects the environment and is compatible with the efficient production of products that have consumer confidence.

The Fertilizer Association will take on a more pro-active role in future years and continue to provide a balanced view to the public, who may not always appreciate the long-term implications of short-term topical decisions.